Stop The BS

The truth about this industry and life in general is that you can't get something for nothing. So many of us are so used to handouts and hustling through situations. Today I challenge you to stop the B.S. This industry, like any other business, requires consistent commitment. I've been involved in so many situations that had the greatest potential but because everyone involved was not seriously on the up and up the opportunity passed us by. Most people think that fast talking and hype game will get you through but it doesn't. You have to get out of your own way by studying and perfecting your craft. I know that we have to make ends meet but if you are going to do this, you have to be willing to make a sacrifice and jump in with both feet. Don't waste time with crap and trying to hustle people. Always know your limitations. You have to know what you bring to the party and what you don't. Also understand that you can't do it all and no one expects you to. You have to be honest with yourself at all times without the B.S. This is the only way to insure success. If music is what you want to do then do it but if you are a part timer then be honest about that and understand that it is unfair to attempt to serve two masters. I have been a full time music business entrepreneur for over eighteen years and I find it hard to truly have a shared vision with someone who doesn't do it ALL the time. I mean someone who doesn't wake up with this as a main focus because it really doesn't take much to make ANYTHING happen but you have to be committed on a daily basis. Now if you have to do something else that is not a problem but just be honest with yourself about who you are and what you want. Nothing in life is without sacrifice. There are tons of stories about musicians and artists giving up things to achieve their goals and it hasn't changed. So let's stop the B.S. and be real about reaching our visions. Stay motivated and focused. You WILL make it.

The Truth

All Rights Reserved by Airtight Productions 2010

AGE

The music industry is a youth driven industry. It seems that in the U.S. particularly you are discarded after twenty five and just plain old at thirty. Even though youth sells, wisdom will rule the day. Your age is what YOU say it is. Now it never hurts to have success at an early age so that it becomes easier to have a long career largely because you will have a fan base that grows with you. But success comes in different facets. The youth factor is mostly only attached to main stream popular music. In most cases more traditional genres such as jazz, blues, soul and folk music are more palatable to those who have a little age, wisdom and experience. It is never too late. As long as you are willing to work hard and sacrifice, you can have what ever level of success you desire. Don't let anyone tell you that you are too old for anything. Even when they say "Be realistic" understand that even reality is relative. Also understand that there are also careers in the industry behind the scenes that lend themselves to wisdom and experience. YOU define your own reality and the outcome rest solely on you. Age is truly a state of mind and then the condition and the position of.... well if you are a P-Funk fan you know the rest. Stay focused and remember to continue to pursue your craft until there is no more breath in you. Age is no limitation. Stay healthy and go get it.

The Truth

All Rights Reserved by Airtight Productions 2010

Get Your Paperwork In Order

I've just returned from a tour in Japan which was a great experience. I actually spend about 60% of my time working abroad. A lot of musicians and artists express the desire to work in Europe or Asia but seem to think that it is hard to do. All you have to do is to begin to look at the entire world as a potential market and get your paperwork in order. Before you can leave the country you must have a passport. You can go to the post office to fill out the application. In this area you will more than likely deal with the New Orleans Passport Authority. The process is very simple and the people at the post office will walk you through it step by step. You can have your passport pictures made at Walgreens, Fed Ex or Kinkos. The passport fee is about $120.00 and about $200.00 to have it expedited. Those prices may vary, just check with the post office. Once you have a passport, you may have to have a visa or work permit depending on the country you are planning to work in. My advice to you is to always get the proper paperwork for each situation. Don't go into a country as a visitor knowing that you are going there to work. You leave yourself open for too many bad things to happen. Having your passport also shows that you are serious about pursuing your career world wide. Having a passport should be as important as having a driver's licence or social security card. The international market is booming and the opportunities are vast in terms of marketing your own music and playing the various festivals and concerts that go on year round. The European musical taste is usually a bit more diverse and their appreciation for individuality makes for a great chance to build a larger worldwide fan base. Remember this is the music business and there is business to do all over the world so make sure you have your paperwork in order. Go get your process started right now!

The Truth

All Rights Reserved by Airtight Productions 2010